First triple backflip on BMX bike

The evolution of the human body as measured by how fast we can run or how high we can jump is glacially slow, despite vastly improved knowledge of human physiology, diet, and training techniques.

By contrast, the rapid evolution of extreme sports has seen regular quantum progress as barrier after barrier falls. Indeed, in the world of stunts, things not thought possible quickly become commonplace once they are achieved.

Yet another such "four minute mile" fell recently when Jed Mildon performed the first triple backflip on a Unit BMX bike. Jed wore a ContourHD helmetcam for the stunt, so if you want to know what it's like to watch the world swirl 1080 degrees in 1080p in two seconds...

Twenty-four year old Mildon landed the Triple Backflip at a free-to-the-public BMX show (entitled the Unit T3 Mindtricks BMX Jam) in Taupo, New Zealand, his home town. Mildon used a 20m (66ft) high super-ramp and a 3.6m (11ft) high super-kicker to achieve the feat.

"Even though I had the trick dialed perfectly into the foampit and onto an airbag set-up, I was still really nervous rolling in for my attempt, but once I was in the air it felt like time stood still and I could see each rotation perfectly", said Jed.

"Landing with both wheels on the downramp was the most amazing feeling in the world!"

"The impact and implications hasn't sunken in yet, but I'm so pumped to have aimed for something once deemed impossible and made my dream a reality."

A Guinness Book Of World Records official was on hand to witness the deed.

Not satisfied with one world first for the day, Mildon also attempted the world's first Double Backflip Tailwhip later in the day, but cased the landing. He walked away unscathed.

Our new premium service is backed by 15 years of experience covering science, technology and innovation. New Atlas Plus delivers a visual experience that is cleaner, faster loading and ad free. Join the growing list of Plus subscribers for just US$19 a year.